The rural community of Tinui, a 40 minute drive east of Masterton, is full of settler stories, but it is also the first place in the world where an Anzac Day commemoration was held.

In 1916 the Rev. Basil Ashcroft held an Anzac ceremony at Tinui's Church of the Good Shepherd and then unveiled a cross, dramatically positioned on a rocky outcrop atop of Mount Maunsell, which overlooks the Tinui township and surrounding farmland. The reason the service was held so soon after Gallipoli, was out of respect for the many local young men involved in the Gallipoli campaign, and more specifically, to those who died. While the original wooden cross has been replaced, it is still in its original position

These days the area is recognised by the Historic Places Trust with a category 1 listing – the highest possible – and every year on Anzac Day hundreds take part to remember those who never returned home from the front. Commemorations include a morning service often attended by New Zealand dignitaries followed by a walk up to the cross.

Outside of Anzac Day, visitors to the village can also visit the Church, the cemetery and walk up to the cross (1st November – 25th April) on the Tinui Anzac Walkway. This walk is an opportunity to experience spectacular views, walk through native bush and exotic forestry and arrive at the Anzac memorial Cross. Note it can be steep in places so strong footwear is a must.

Afterwards they can enjoy fuel up at the Tinui Cafe & Bar in the village or continue their journey out towards the spectacular East Coast beaches of Castlepoint and Mataikona.

For more things to do while you're visiting the Wairarapa, a region only one hour’s drive or train ride from Wellington, head to www.wairarapanz.com.

When you're here be sure to call into one of our i-SITE Visitor Information Centres for advice and trip suggestions.